The Tie That Binds

John is a ruthless, controlling father figure who uses violence to enforce his will. He shoots Officer Carrey and orchestrates the abduction of Janie while emotionally brutalizing those around him. His fixation on reclaiming his daughter drives the central conflict until his violent end.

Leann is John's equally ruthless partner, driven by a desire to reclaim Janie. She expertly manipulates people and environments to aid the Netherwoods' goals, participating in abductions and killings. Her partnership with John amplifies the threat facing the Cliftons and Janie.

Janie is a traumatized child whose precociousness and fear shape her behavior. She hides in the Cliftons' closet, has nightmares about the 'Tooth Fairy,' and clings to protective objects. Her resilience grows as Dana and Russell become a new, nurturing family around her, culminating in moments of fierce, painful agency.

Russell is an Los Angeles architect who designed the unfinished house that becomes central to the story. He and Dana serve as Janie's adoptive parents, offering safety, stability, and defense against the Netherwoods. His resourcefulness helps shield his new family during the climactic confrontation.

Dana is a photographer and the nurturing pillar of the新 Cliftons' home. She forms a deep emotional bond with Janie and acts as a shield between the child and the Netherwoods. Her courage and empathy help Janie feel safe enough to confront her trauma.

Maggie is the adoption agency case worker who helps place Janie with the Cliftons. Her professional dedication to safeguarding Janie is cut short when she is killed by the Netherwoods, underscoring the high stakes of the custody battle.

Lisa Marie is the wife of Gil Chandler and a friend of the Cliftons. She becomes a pivotal figure for the Netherwoods to obtain information about the Cliftons' whereabouts, highlighting how ordinary lives are drawn into the danger.

Gil is Lisa Marie's husband and a friend to the Cliftons, who provides support during the crisis. He represents the ordinary, protective family unit that is threatened by the Netherwoods' violence.

Officer Carrey is the first responder who confronts John at the crime scene. He is shot and wounded, his encounter triggering the Netherwoods' flight and Janie's ongoing danger.

Detective Mercer is among the police investigators tracking the Netherwoods' crimes. He embodies the persistent, procedural side of law enforcement as the case unfolds.